BASF will once again be present with its polyurethane experts at the 2016 SIMAC International Exhibition of Machines and Technologies for Footwear and Leathergoods Industries in Milan (Rho). From February 23 to 25, trade show visitors have the possibility to see and discuss the latest developments of Elastopan® (PU systems), Elastollan® (TPU) as well as Infinergy® (E-TPU) for lighter, softer and more flexible solutions for the footwear industry at booth F 38 G 37 in hall 14.

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BASF Polyurethanes Europe

Elastopan® Light Sports for high rebound midsoles

Specifically for the sports sector BASF developed a tailor-made polyether-based PU system - Elastopan® Light Sports. Its main features are lightness, excellent cushioning as well as high rebound and hydrolysis resistance. The material is already successfully deployed in Puma’s Ignite and the model Puma Ignite ProKnit is produced with Direct Injection Technology here in Europe.

Elastollan® Light

Elastollan® Light is a thermoplastic polyurethane mixed with blowing agent masterbatch which is used to manufacture particularly lightweight, high grade soles on a cost-efficient basis by injection molding. Elastollan® Light is used in outsoles, midsoles or elements.

The world’s first expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU) is now being used in safety shoes. The closed-cell, elastic particle foam features low density, high elasticity, high abrasion resistance, high tensile strength and good long-term durability over a wide temperature range (between – 20°C and + 40°C) along with good chemical resistance. The outstanding property of Infinergy® however, is its high resilience. Infinergy® does not lose its high resilience even with continuous use, making it the ideal material for midsoles in safety shoes.

Elastopan® Light Safe – light and antistatic

With Elastopan® Light Safe, BASF offers another low-density system. This is a water-blown polyurethane and antistatic. Midsoles made of this new material are lighter than standard PU systems for midsoles in safety shoes and therefore provide greater comfort.

It can be used in combination with TPU or rubber outer soles to produce a dual-density sole that meets ISO standard EN20344:2011.

Footwear is Art

“Art Connection” was the theme for the ninth edition of the Design Contest promoted and organized by Politecnico Calzaturiero, the School of Footwear Design and Technology in Capriccio di Vigonza near Padua, in collaboration with BASF Italia. Unlike previous editions, a professional design studio, STEFANOdiFRANCESCO, created the sole by using PU systems and TPU and the students designed a unisex sneaker based on this sole, bringing together art and footwear. BASF will present the three winning shoes “The hidden side of art”, “Before I die wall” and “Amor” at its booth.

About BASF

BASF is one of the leading suppliers of Polyurethane Solutions for systems, specialties and PU basic products. With its comprehensive product portfolio and custom-designed services, BASF is the preferred partner of its customers in many industries.

With its global network of 39 polyurethane system houses, BASF provides fast local support, from technical service and sales to production and marketing. In partner-like co-operation with its customers BASF develops new products and solutions, and constantly advance these.